In a world that’s constantly on the move, sometimes the best journey is the one that lets you slow down. The newest Lakbay Norte Travel Guide invites you to find your haven in Nueva Ecija – a place where comfort, culture and nature come together just a few hours away from the metro.
Known as the “Rice Granary of the Philippines,” Nueva Ecija offers more than wide fields and farm life. Thanks to the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), your escape up north is now smoother and more scenic—because here, the journey is already part of the experience.
A Scenic Start along SCTEX
Before you even arrive at your destination, the drive itself is already part of the adventure. SCTEX is regarded as one of the most visually stunning expressways in the country, offering travelers a cinematic drive with breathtaking views at every turn. A panorama of rolling hills, lush green rice fields, and the majestic silhouette of the Sierra Madre mountains frames the well-kept roads.
The calming views welcome you long before you reach Nueva Ecija.
Nature & Serenity
If your soul is calling for quiet, fresh air, and green spaces, these spots offer the perfect retreat:
- The Nest Resort and Campground
A cozy haven surrounded by nature, the Nest offers cabins and a serene environment that allows you to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing comfort.
Location: Sitio Kalunutan – Maligaya Road, Brgy. Maligaya, Palayan City
Check-in: 2:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
Contact: +63 917 136 4116
Email: bookings@thenestresort.camp
- Giron Botanic
A serene botanical garden that showcases local flora and fauna, an activity you rarely get to enjoy in the city.
Location: Giron Botanic Compound, Purok 5 F. K. Ilagan Subdivision, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija
For inquiries, tours, and reservations, please contact:
Email: gironbotanicph@gmail.com
Contact: (+63) 922 850 5588 | (+63) 917 414 1649
Facebook: facebook.com/GironBotanicPhilippines
Instagram: @GironBotanicPH and @stonehousebnb
- Nature Escape Farm and Resort
Enjoy the farm life! This destination provides a holistic getaway with farm amenities and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for genuine recharge.
Location: L. Fajardo Street, Purok 2, Imelda Valley 1, Palayan City
Check-in: 2:00 PM | Check-out: 12:00 PM
Contact: +63 939 934 8408
Email: naturescape.awaits@gmail.com
Culture & Creativity
Explore the province’s heritage and creative spirit in these community-loved spaces:
- Katha Arts Space
A haven for artists and art enthusiasts, this space allows visitors to explore local art and even participate in creative workshops, making it truly an enriching indoor activity.
Location: 71 Clamonte Street, Aduas Centro, Cabanatuan City
Contact: +63 966 651 2722
For Inquiries:
Kindly send a DM to @katha.artspace or email kathaartspace2025@gmail.com
Gallery Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 NN – 10:00 PM
Admission: No Entrance Fee
- Museo de Bongabon: For a dose of history and culture, the Museo de Bongabon provides a fascinating look into the province’s heritage and local way of life.
Location: 1089 JP Rizal, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija
Contact: +63 966 651 2722
Email: museodebongabon.2024@gmail.com
Gallery Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission Fees (Effective January 1, 2026):
Students / PWDs / Senior Citizens – ₱10
Adults – ₱20
Bongabon Residents – Donation basis
Cozy Stays
These accommodations offer comfort, convenience, and a private place to unwind – your home away from home.
- La Casa Prime Cabins: These stylish cabins provide a private and intimate setting, ideal for a romantic retreat or a quiet family weekend.
Location: Purok 1, Brgy. Curva, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija
Check-in: 2:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
Contact: +63 969 039 0605
For Bookings & Inquiries:
Email: lacasaprimestaycationresort@gmail.com
Facebook: facebook.com/Lacasaprimecabins
- Harvest Hotel: A polished and modern stay in the heart of Cabanatuan — a comfortable base for your explorations.
Location: 1179 Del Pilar Street, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Contact: Telephone: (044) 950 8888 • Mobile: (0998) 556 1136
Email: info@theharvesthotel.com
Check-in: 3:00 PM | Check-out: 12:00 PM
Sacred Sites for Quiet Reflection
Experience a moment of solemnity and architectural beauty at these revered sites.
- Diocesan Shrine of Nuestra Señora de las Saleras: A visit to this shrine shows Nueva Ecija’s rich spiritual heritage as it provides a quiet place for reflection and appreciation of its beautiful architecture.
Location: Poblacion Centro, Aliaga, Nueva Ecija
- Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. John the Baptist: A symbol of faith and tradition, this shrine shines brightest during the “Taong Putik” Festival, where devotees cover themselves in mud and banana leaves to honor St. John the Baptist’s humility. Known for its miraculous healing powers, it continues to draw pilgrims seeking renewal and grace.
Location: Bibiclat, Aliaga, Nueva Ecija
Taste and Take Home the Local Flavor
No trip is complete without indulging in local culinary treasures. The convenience of SCTEX makes it easy to stop by local hotspots and bring home a piece of the province with you.
- Edna’s Cakeland: A legendary, community-loved name in Nueva Ecija, a must-visit restaurant for its delectable cakes and pastries. Their signature fluffy sansrival is a perfect take-home treat.
Location: #1 Don Manuel Avenue, Kapitan Pepe Subdivision, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Contact: (044) 958 9673 | (0917) 574 2727
Open Daily: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price Range: ₱50 – ₱1,100
- Cabanatuan’s Longganisa: Head to the Cabanatuan City Public Market to get your hands on the famous garlicky and savory Cabanatuan Longganisa. It’s a breakfast staple that makes for an unforgettable pasalubong.
Location: Cabanatuan City Public Market, Nueva Ecija
Best time to visit: early morning for the freshest batches straight from local vendors.
Price Range: ₱100 – ₱200 per dozen (varies by stall).
- Tiago Filipino-Spanish Dining: Experience the fusion of Filipino and Spanish flavors at Tiago, a culinary gem that elevates traditional dishes into a fine dining experience.
Location: Elora’s Guesthouse Compound, Brgy. Sinipit, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija
For inquiries and reservations:
Contact number: 0962 422 8653
Email: tiagofilipinospanish@gmail.com
Open Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: ₱129 – ₱699
- Café Ecija by Harvest Hotel: This charming cafe offers a cozy ambiance and a taste of local coffee blends and delicious comfort food, perfect for a quick coffee and snack.
Location: 1179 Del Pilar Street, Cabanatuan City, Philippines
For Reservations and Inquiries: (044) 950 8888 | 0998 556 1136
Email: info@theharvesthotel.com
Open Daily: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: ₱149 – ₱1,588
More than rice fields and open landscapes, Nueva Ecija invites you to stay a while – to breathe, to reconnect, to feel at ease.
And with the smooth drive brought by SCTEX, the journey to get here is just as beautiful as the destination. Drive slow. Take it in. Nueva Ecija is waiting.
